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Welcome to our culinary journey toward a delicious yet healthy meal: Easy Healthy Broccoli Pasta. This dish embodies the perfect balance between nutrition and flavor, making it an excellent choice for those seeking to maintain a healthy lifestyle without sacrificing taste. Pasta often gets a bad reputation for being a high-calorie food, but when paired with wholesome ingredients like broccoli and whole wheat pasta, it transforms into a nourishing dish that can fit comfortably into a balanced diet.

Easy Healthy Broccoli Pasta

Discover the flavors of Easy Healthy Broccoli Pasta! This quick recipe combines whole wheat pasta and vibrant broccoli tossed in a fragrant garlic and olive oil sauce, with a hint of lemon for brightness. Perfect for a nutritious weeknight dinner, it takes just 25 minutes to prepare. Add a sprinkle of Parmesan and fresh basil for an extra touch. Enjoy a wholesome meal that’s both delicious and satisfying! Great for families or meal prep!
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Ingredients
  

8 ounces whole wheat pasta (spaghetti or penne)

2 cups broccoli florets

2 tablespoons olive oil

3 cloves garlic, minced

1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Zest and juice of 1 lemon

1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Fresh basil leaves, for garnish

Instructions
 

Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the whole wheat pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. In the last 3 minutes of cooking, add the broccoli florets to the pot to blanch them.

    Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta and broccoli in a colander. Rinse briefly with cold water to stop the cooking process and set aside.

      In the same pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.

        Stir in the red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper.

          Add the drained pasta and broccoli back into the pot. Toss to combine thoroughly with the garlic and olive oil mixture.

            Gradually add reserved pasta water, a little at a time, until you reach your desired sauciness.

              Remove from heat and stir in the lemon zest and juice. Adjust seasoning if needed.

                If desired, sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese and toss to combine.

                  Serve hot, garnishing with fresh basil leaves on top.

                    Prep Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 25 minutes | Servings: 4